The speaker, who is 97 years old, reflects on their life experiences, particularly their struggle with the physical changes and limitations that come with old age. They discuss the difficulty of understanding the psychology of aging, the loss of abilities, and the need to accept limitations. They also share their thoughts on death, expressing that there's no reason to be afraid or concerned, as death brings nothing but the end of suffering and unhappiness.
The speaker also talks about their personal life, mentioning their wife who passed away several years ago. They describe the profound sense of loss and emptiness they feel due to her absence. They share their experiences of being with her during her dying process, and how they found comfort in their shared experiences.
Despite the challenges, the speaker finds beauty in the world around them, appreciating the trees and other natural elements. They express a deep appreciation for life and the experiences it offers, even as they grapple with the inevitability of death.
Throughout their reflections, the speaker acknowledges the difficulty of understanding the purpose of life and the fear of death. They express a sense of being a puzzle to themselves, and the irony of asking a question that they believe has no good answer.
In conclusion, the speaker emphasizes the importance of simply existing and waiting, as life is a complex and unresolvable mystery. They express a deep appreciation for the experiences they've had and the beauty they've seen, even as they grapple with the inevitability of death.
1. The speaker is 97 years old and has had an interesting experience of aging.
2. The speaker finds it difficult for people who have not reached old age to understand the psychology of aging.
3. The speaker has lost the ability to do things that they had all their life, and there's a tendency to act as if they still have it.
4. The speaker has to accept that they can't do things they used to do anymore.
5. The speaker was born in Brooklyn in 1921.
6. The speaker has published a book on self-deception, Chinese philosophy, and a book about death.
7. The speaker has also worked in the theory of ethics and law, particularly problems of responsibility in connection with alcoholism and drug addiction.
8. The speaker has been in a relationship with a partner for around 17 years.
9. The speaker feels a part of themselves is missing since their partner passed away.
10. The speaker has written books on a number of other topics, but none have resolved the central question of their existence.
11. The speaker is waiting until they have to say goodbye.